Top six International goal scorers in history – Messi, Ronaldo and other surprise names

The great stories of war heroes and kings are often recounted by their nations, and even today, history remembers them fondly.

In a similar vein, it is the essence of patriotism that drives many footballers to yearn to represent their country of origin, belting out their national anthem or celebrating milestones with unbridled passion.

Romelu Lukaku roared with joy when he climbed to the rank of the sixth-highest international goalscorer in history, thanks to his header against Ukraine.

For fans, few things rival the thrill of a goal that reignites their passion—a historic moment that Belgium supporters will cherish forever. Like Lukaku, who reached this milestone, Cristiano Ronaldo and others have left an indelible mark on their national teams.

Here are the six top scorers in international football:

6. Romelu Lukaku

Since bursting onto the scene, Lukaku has been nothing short of exceptional for Belgium. The 31-year-old is Belgium’s all-time leading scorer with 86 goals. His latest strike against Ukraine brought him within three goals of cracking the top three.

5. Mokhtar Dahari

Dahari was a prolific scorer whose name resonates throughout Malaysia. The forward debuted for the national team at just 19, facing Sri Lanka in 1972. In 142 games, he netted 88 goals, securing his place among the world’s highest scorers.

4. Sunil Chhetri

Sunil Chhetri not only ranks among the top international goal scorers but also holds the record as the all-time leading scorer in the Indian Super League. Since debuting for the Indian national team in 2005, he has scored 95 goals in 153 games, steering India to multiple Nehru Cup and SAFF Championship victories.

3. Ali Daei

Before Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi took the stage, Ali Daei was the undisputed king of international goals—and no one came close. While captaining Iran, Daei made his mark, amassing an incredible 108 goals in 148 games.

2. Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi has undeniably fuelled one of the world’s most debated topics: Who is the GOAT? His numbers speak for themselves. The Argentine has scored 112 goals in 191 games, leading his team to Copa América glory and a World Cup triumph.

1. Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo is the ultimate goal scorer—he scores for both fun and business. Since bursting onto the scene, Ronaldo has lived up to his name, winning the Euros and claiming the record for the most international goals with 136 in 219 games.